Hurricane’s are becoming more frequent and growing in power every year. While doing research to create my own Hurricane Prep List I found that there is a wealth of information out there. In my research I found it amazing how often the government warns us to be prepared for disasters. From the Red Cross to FEMA’S websites there is a ton of information on how to prepare for when disaster strikes.

All of their websites are very clear that you need to have supplies to fend for yourself until the government can get to you. Make no mistake about it you are on your own to protect your family and to stay alive until order is restored. The question you need to ask yourself is, how long will it take for order to be restored? Your answer to this question will help to determine the amount of supplies you will need. I personally think you should have a month’s supply at minimum for disaster preps. To help you get started preparing your family here is a prep list from the Red Cross:

How to Prepare For The Hurricane:

Listen to a NOAA Weather Radio for critical information from the National Weather Service (NWS).

Check your disaster supplies and replace or restock as needed.

Bring in anything that can be picked up by the wind (bicycles, lawn furniture).

Close windows, doors and hurricane shutters. If you do not have hurricane shutters, close and board up all windows and doors with plywood.

Turn the refrigerator and freezer to the coldest setting and keep them closed as much as possible so that food will last longer if the power goes out.

Turn off propane tanks and unplug small appliances.

Fill your car’s gas tank.

Talk with members of your household and create an evacuation plan. Planning and practicing your evacuation plan minimizes confusion and fear during the event.

Learn about your community’s hurricane response plan. Plan routes to local shelters, register family members with special medical needs as required and make plans for your pets to be cared for.

Evacuate if advised by authorities. Be careful to avoid flooded roads and washed out bridges.

Because standard homeowners insurance doesn’t cover flooding, it’s important to have protection from the floods associated with hurricanes, tropical storms, heavy rains and other conditions that impact the U.S. For more information on flood insurance, please visit the National Flood Insurance Program Web site at www.FloodSmart.gov.

What Do I Do After The Hurricane:

Continue listening to a NOAA Weather Radio or the local news for the latest updates.

Stay alert for extended rainfall and subsequent flooding even after the hurricane or tropical storm has ended.

If you evacuated, return home only when officials say it is safe.

Drive only if necessary and avoid flooded roads and washed-out bridges.

Keep away from loose or dangling power lines and report them immediately to the power company.

Stay out of any building that has water around it.

Inspect your home for damage. Take pictures of damage, both of the building and its contents, for insurance purposes.

Use flashlights in the dark. Do NOT use candles.

Avoid drinking or preparing food with tap water until you are sure it’s not contaminated.

Check refrigerated food for spoilage. If in doubt, throw it out.

Wear protective clothing and be cautious when cleaning up to avoid injury.